5 rupees 1954 radar

Common. While the 1954 issue represents the first year of Seychelles banknotes, Pick P-11a was produced in substantial quantities for circulation. eBay market data shows examples selling in the VF range for $80–$300 and UNC examples catalogued at $650 (2019), with PMG-graded specimens in the 66–67 range commanding $850–$938. The note's availability in multiple condition grades and its consistent appearance on the secondary market confirm common status. AU examples, falling between VF and UNC, represent the middle tier of collector demand and pricing, indicating this is not a scarce issue despite its historical significance.

Issued on 1st August 1954 by the Government of Seychelles during the final decade of British colonial rule, this banknote bears the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, affirming Seychelles' status as a British Crown Colony at that time. The prominent depiction of the coco-de-mer palm tree on the reverse symbolizes the islands' unique natural resources and identity, while the formal Victorian design aesthetic reflects mid-20th century British Commonwealth monetary standards. The signature of the Governor appears as the issuing authority, emphasizing the colonial administrative structure of the period.

The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II rendered in profile facing right within an elaborate star-shaped decorative frame, printed in green against a field of purple/mauve with cream highlights. The ornamental border employs classical guilloche and scrollwork patterns characteristic of Thomas de la Rue's security printing tradition. Ornamental corner designs incorporate the numeral 5. The reverse presents a minimalist but dignified design, with the coco-de-mer palm tree—Seychelles' most iconic botanical symbol and endemic species—depicted in fine line engraving within a circular medallion at center. The overall color scheme on both sides maintains the purple/mauve and cream palette, creating visual continuity and a distinctly colonial Commonwealth aesthetic.

FRONT SIDE: 'FIVE RUPEES' (denomination); 'ISSUED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF SEYCHELLES' (issuer); 'THESE NOTES ARE LEGAL TENDER FOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY AMOUNT' (legal tender declaration); '1st August 1954' (issue date); 'W. Blair Oasis' (signature) with 'GOVERNOR' (title); 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY, LIMITED, LONDON.' (printer attribution); Serial number 'A/7 21312' (appears twice, left and right). BACK SIDE: '5' (denomination numeral, left and right); 'GOVERNMENT OF SEYCHELLES' (issuer); 'FIVE RUPEES' (denomination in words).

Intaglio (engraved) printing, executed by Thomas de la Rue & Company Limited, London, one of the world's foremost security printers. The fine line engraving is evident throughout the decorative borders, portrait rendering, and palm tree depiction. Intricate geometric patterns and guilloche work serve both aesthetic and security purposes. The sharp registration and crisp impression visible in this AU example demonstrate the high quality of TDLR's workmanship during the mid-20th century.

This specific example is catalogued as Pick P-11a with serial number prefix A/7 and number 21312. The note bears the signature of W. Blair Oasis as Governor, confirming it as part of the 1954 issue signature variety. Thomas de la Rue printed both the 1954 and 1960 issues of this denomination, and signature varieties exist depending on which governor held office at the time of issue. The 'A/7' prefix appears consistent with early issue serial numbering. No overprints or exceptional markings are evident in this example.